Effects of Exercise-Based Interventions on Musculoskeletal Pain and Physical Function in Manufacturing Workers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background/

Objectives

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are prevalent among manufacturing workers exposed to repetitive and physically demanding tasks. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of exercise-based interventions on musculoskeletal pain and physical function among manufacturing workers, focusing on symptom management and functional improvement rather than the prevention of new WMSDs.

Methods

PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched from inception to March 31, 2026. Prospective controlled studies of workplace- or job-related exercise interventions were included. Risk of bias was evaluated within the RoB 2 framework, and random-effects meta-analyses used standardized mean differences (Hedges' g), with functional outcomes analyzed separately by domain. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261369113).

Results

Thirteen studies were included in the review. The revised primary pain synthesis included seven studies (414 participants) and favored exercise-based interventions (SMD -0.69, 95% CI -1.25 to -0.12; I2 = 71.9%). Disability/function-status outcomes included three studies (143 participants; SMD -0.67, 95% CI -1.42 to 0.07). Estimates for shoulder abduction range of motion (two studies; 111 participants; SMD -0.63, 95% CI -3.29 to 2.03) and RAND-36 physical functioning (one study; 24 participants; SMD -0.21, 95% CI -1.06 to 0.64) were imprecise. Evidence certainty was low for disability/function-status outcomes and very low for the other outcomes.

Conclusions

Exercise-based interventions may improve disability/function-status outcomes, although the confidence interval included little or no difference. Evidence for effects on pain, shoulder range of motion, and RAND-36 physical functioning remains very uncertain. The findings concern symptom management rather than demonstrated prevention of new WMSDs. Optimal exercise prescriptions and sustained benefits remain uncertain.